What happens when you add filmmaking and music? a MUSIC VIDEO! By far one of the best things created. Music videos bring a song to life, but how do you make one? Check this out to get tips on creating a music video.
All music videos can be different with different styles which really has to do with the style of the music. How to make one is very broad, but with a guideline to making one can help you get on the right path.
- Costs/Budget: How much will it costs to create a music video? Take these things into account when figuring out the budget of the project.
- Crew - If you're low on cash make sure to feed your crew around the clock with snacks and water or a meal, whichever you decide.
- Equipment- Do you already own the equipment or will you need to get more? Find out about renting equipment to save costs here: Renting Equipment Online. You can also search for places to rent equipment locally to you.
- Labor costs- This is how much you want to charge for your music video if this isn't a complimentary music video.
- Style: The style of the video is going to affect everything with producing the music video.
- Live Concert Style: You will need at least two to three cameras to capture simultaneous angles, unless the talent is willing to shoot the same performance multiple times. Check out this one : Concert Music Video
- Flashy/High Quality style: Lights! Lights! Lights! Most music video producers will use something called a ring light which gives the effect of a lighted ring around the singer's eyes and the background is usually a green screen which will allow you to change the background to whatever you like. Check out this video to get a sense of what I mean: Ring Light Tutorial.
- Story: We've seen the music videos that have a sort of story that goes along with the song and it really emotionally connects to the audience. One of my favorites is Everytime by Britney Spears
- Animation: There are some awesome animated music videos out there that make it easy for the talent, and allows them to not have to show up for a video shoot. Daft Punk and the Gorrilaz are known for these types of videos. If you have a great animator on your hands this could be a great option.
- Black and White: A black and white music video always seems to add an awesome emotional touch, so if you have one of those tear jerking songs, consider this style. Check out Somebody Like You by Adele
- Collaborate with the band or artist you're doing the music video with and take in their vision and give suggestions from a filmmakers standpoint. If the things they want is out of your reach, let them know and then provide an alternative solution.
- Location: Finding the right place for shooting your music video is very important. Remember the feel you're going for and keep that in mind, be sure you have the right to film in certain areas and ask for permission before filming, although my professor once told me it's better to ask for forgiveness than permission.. Use your best judgement.
- Contract: Of course no one wants to be all legal and set rules, but you have to in order to protect yourself. Type up a legal document stating the agreement between you and the artist, any rules you have set, dates, and contact information. Make sure all participants sign the document prior to shooting the music video.
- Tutorials: Of course I can't leave you without some awesome tutorials to achieve a music video you're looking for.
- Stay Creative! Think outside the box and make a name for yourself!
